Determining the cost of an abortion is just one of the many things to consider before scheduling an abortion procedure or obtaining abortion medications. Abortions can be expensive. They may or may not be covered by your insurance, and there may be additional out-of-pocket costs you are responsible for.
Types Of Abortion
There are different types of abortion, and the price differs according to each type. For example, a medical abortion in the first trimester has a wide price range depending on where and how you access your pills. Purchasing abortion pills online is highly discouraged and should only be done through a prescribing doctor during an in-clinic appointment. Though cheaper, online abortion comes with increased risk, as it is very dangerous to induce a medical abortion without first receiving an ultrasound to determine how many weeks along you are. Abortion pills are only FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation. If you take abortion pills without determining gestational age, you risk taking them past 11 weeks. Ordering them online also means you are also not under the care of a doctor should there be complications with the process. This risk increases the further along you are in the pregnancy.
Are Abortions Covered By Insurance?
Insurance may or may not cover an abortion procedure and is dependent on your state and insurance provider. Private insurance companies are not required to offer abortion coverage.
What Determines Abortion Cost?
Several factors can affect the cost of an abortion in the United States and may include:
State Availability
After the Supreme Court overruled Roe v. Wade in June 2022, some states instituted restrictions on abortion access by withdrawing funding. This led to an increase in what is known as abortion tourism, or travel across state lines to obtain an abortion. Thus, travel expenses are now an additional consideration for some seeking abortion.
Location
Abortion costs can vary greatly from state to state. Some areas of the country may have higher prices for abortion services. Higher costs are often found in states with abortion bans, but still may vary in those with no abortion restrictions. Abortion costs also depend on the provider’s location and whether the abortion will be performed in a hospital or a private clinic.
Gestational Age
Gestational age (how far along you are in pregnancy) determines the type of abortion available to you. Abortion cost directly correlates with gestational age and type of procedure. The price of abortion increases as the pregnancy progresses. Surgical procedures are much more expensive than the medication option. Second and third-trimester procedures can cost several thousands of dollars due to the risk and complexity of this type of procedure. It is important to check with your insurance company as there may be out-of-pocket expenses depending on your coverage.
Abortion Alternatives
If you or someone you know is pregnant and considering abortion, it is important to know that there are other options to consider. For your physical and mental health and well-being, it is essential to consider all of the options available to you, particularly if you are unsure about the decision to end your pregnancy. Deciding how to navigate an unplanned pregnancy is a life-altering moment. It is vital to take the time to learn about and consider all of your options so that you can make a fully informed decision.
Clearway Clinic is a fully licensed medical clinic for women considering abortion. With locations in Worcester and Springfield, we offer free, confidential visits, including no-cost ultrasounds and personally-curated resource lists. Schedule an appointment today.
